Researchers and companies are racing to turn algae into a viable source of renewable energy. Leaders in the field will present progress and challenges in bringing algae biofuels and chemicals to the marketplace at the Biotechnology Industry Organization's (BIO) 2009 Pacific Rim Summit on Industrial Biotechnology and Bioenergy, to be held Nov. 8-11, 2009 in Honolulu.

Brent Erickson, executive vice president of BIO's Industrial and Environmental Section, said, "Algae is seen as a promising source of raw material for biofuels, but it also could become a workhorse for producing ethanol, chemical, protein and food ingredients.

As companies work to achieve the full potential of algae for fuels and chemicals, they'll face the same challenges and opportunities as other biotechnology companies.

The Pacific Rim Summit provides an opportunity for startup companies to present the state of their research and development, share their experiences and network with one another and with other biotechnology companies."

The Pacific Rim Summit is the only global conference dedicated to building innovative collaborations in industrial biotechnology across the Pacific.

All programs at the Pacific Rim Summit on Industrial Biotechnology and Bioenergy are open to attendance by members of the media. Complimentary media registration is available to editors and reporters working full time for print, broadcast or web publications with valid press credentials.